FOR Cleveland’s Siggy Nowak, football has always been more than just a game – it’s a lifelong passion.
At 77, that dedication has earned him the rare honour of again pulling on the green and gold to represent Australia, this time at the Walking Football World Cup in Spain.
The tournament, hosted by the Federation of Walking Football Associations, will be held in Torrevieja, near Alicante, from October 21 to 24.
It will bring together close to 127 teams from 46 nations, with men’s divisions for players in their 50s, 60s and 70s, and women’s divisions for players in their 40s, 50s and 60s.
Siggy will compete in the men’s Over 70s category, a new division at the World Cup, which is set to expand further with an Over 80s group in future tournaments.
His team will face strong competition from countries including England, France, Spain, Italy, Japan, the Netherlands and Canada.
Redland City Council has recognised Siggy’s achievement with support through the Mayor and Councillors’ Community Benefit Fund.
Walking football has rapidly gained popularity worldwide.
Running and tackling from the back or side are banned, and the ball must remain below head height, making it a low impact but highly social sport.
Siggy has been central to promoting the game in Redlands, helping to organise the first Cleveland walking football session nearly two years ago.
What started as a trial has now become a regular Wednesday evening fixture at Redland United Football Club.
Club president Mark Thig praised Siggy’s role in the sport’s local growth, saying his leadership had been instrumental in building momentum and community interest.
Siggy’s love of football began at age 11 and saw him progress through junior ranks to top-level amateur competition in Victoria before continuing in seniors, veterans and futsal after moving to Brisbane.
He has previously represented Australia in youth football and has also pulled on the national jersey for walking football at World Cups in Florence in 2022 and Cardiff in 2023.
While thrilled to again compete on the international stage, Siggy says the real joy of walking football lies in the friendships and health benefits it brings.
“Walking football is good for your body and your mind,” he said.
“Getting to represent Australia is an incredible honour, but the real reward with walking football is the camaraderie, the sharing of life stories, and staying active.”
And his advice to others is simple.
“Football never stops. Stay active and enjoy kicking that round ball,” he said.
